Chapter 21

Clara kept her eyes on the door while mindlessly chatting with Russell. She thought, "Why isn't that bitch, Cassandra, back yet?" The tea she had specially prepared for Cassandra had already gone cold. At this point, she was worn out from talking to Russell. After Cassandra left the room, Russell became somewhat unruly. He overtly took advantage of Clara by touching her hand and attempting to pull her into a hug. Obviously, she was very appalled by his behavior. Russell was a balding man with a beer belly. He was a sleazy, repulsive man who came from new money. Clara started to regret following Cassandra to this dinner. She thought, "Damn it! It's just me and Mr. Hawk in this room!" Russell looked like he wanted to eat her alive. She tried to suppress her discomfort and kept calm. Tilting her body, she tactfully dodged his wandering hand and put on a professional smile. "Mr. Hawk, why don't we go over the contract? I can explain it to you if you have any questions." Russell